I find it really sad that a lot of the actor-driven and audience-participation attractions at Universal and Hollywood Studios and in amusement parks overall have been replaced with things that are simply branded with company properties.
Well to be fair the attractions have always been brands of different companies, to say nothing on how many of the actor-driven and audience participation attractions bombed for one reason or another
Well, true, but not always so over-branded for me. EPCOT and Disney used to have a lot of experience-themed rides and attractions that weren't necessarily calling back to a particular franchise, but now it's all rides that tie directly to movies or TV.
xingcat - I feel the same way, even though I do remember those audience participation shows could get awkward & uncomfortable, depending on who got picked out. I've done voiceover work for most of my life, so of course I was absolutely enthralled by the sound & Foley shows they did at Disney MGM when it first opened. My family was disappointed at the lack of 'real rides', but I wanted to be part of movie making so much, I spent the entire day in my own head, pretending I really was part of a movie. I was nine and I had an absolute blast. Now I have a 9yo niece who is very much like I was, but her three siblings all want the rides. I don't think there's anything wrong with loving straightforward rides & shows, not at all, but it does make me a little sad that my niece probably won't get a chance to experience the technical shows they once had, because I know she'd friggin' love that (she loved historical Williamsburg, VA, too, while her siblings wanted to hang themselves from sheer boredom). I think it boils down to how much it can suck to have the minority interest. I could watch a studio show about sound effects all damn day, but understand other folks might be like "Screw this! Give me the talking donkey or give me death!".
Watching Kevin's channel is awesome, seeing someone doing something because they love it and just getting better and better. I consider him a professional at this point!
One of the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts had Jimmy as the "star" of the special. One segment had an impersonator teach Jimmy Stewart how to act like Jimmy Stewart. It was funny, but also rather interesting to see the difference between perception/caricature and the real thing.
I saw this attraction in August 16, 1994. It was an "audience participation" attraction, and my girlfriend at the time was picked for the carousel scene! We really hammed it up that day, she also got picked to be on stage for "Earthquake!" I got picked to be on stage at the Ghostbusters and Murder She Wrote attractions!!! Crazy vay-cay!!!
I got picked twice for Hitchcock (the falling down the statue of liberty scene) and picked once for Earthquake (I had gone to Universal a couple of times in the 90s). It was a lot of fun. Sad to know that they got rid of this aspect. Imagine what they could do now and how it could attract the social media people looking for a good shot.
Really a treat reading these recollections of now non-existent Alfred Hitchcock: Art of Making Movies attraction. I was fortunate to be one of the primary attraction directors/interactive designers on this show (I also did the same for Murder, She Wrote Mystery Theatre, and later, Jaws ). As a filmmaker, it was truly a dream job working with materials from this master movie creator and the actors who participated in the attraction features. On top of working alongside such great technical creators that Universal put to work creating the park (at the time, we were really working with "advanced and state of the art" technology). Tons of great memories! We had so much creative fun producing these shows as it seems people had attending and participating in them.
I remember going on this ride when I was 4 years old, not knowing who Alfred Hitchcock was, and still I thought this was the coolest attraction. The ride itself did such a good job explaining the films that a literal child could understand it
This attraction was what caused me to fall in love with Hitchcock films. I remember the first time I visited this attraction as a kid. I was fascinated by the props in this attraction, and the shower scene from Pyscho. Now as an adult who still loves Hitchcock films, I truly cherish what this attraction did for me as a kid. Thank you for the amazing video Kevin!
SAME!!! in 1992 I was 10, my dad had me and my Mum and Brother take a pic in front of the Bates Motel, had never heard of it before, thus began my Hitchcock Journey.
I remember this was one of the last attractions to close for the evening, and we would go there to stretch our time in the park. It would be totally empty except for the actors/attendants, but you could take your time at every exhibit. Sad it's gone but I'm glad I got a chance to go to it. Even got picked for the "Saboteur" demonstration one time :)
Same here! I remember the shower scene recreation so well, and how I begged my Aunt (my classic movie/tv influence) afterward to buy Psycho so I could see the whole thing. I waited excitedly all week until I could go watch it with her, and when I did it was everything I hoped for. Now still a top 5 favorite movie of mine. Also, Anthony Perkins and I share the same birthday, so I often watch it then.
Same, I think I went in 2000 or 2001 and I've never been the same. I walked into that building as a typical 2000s kid that hated black and white movies just because they were old, and, now 20 years later I still have a deep love for movies of that era and earlier and especially Hitchcock films. The place was a benchmark event for me
I went very early on in 1990 and there was so little operational that they were handing out tickets to come back for free. It was nice to be able to walk from the parking lot right inside however.
Eh, I managed to go on it once, and it wasn't anything special; the 3D birds scene, for instance, looked pretty crumby in comparison to the stuff coming out around the 2000s (The Bug's Life ride at Animal Kingdom is in a different League). I've been to Universal a few times and it was one of those we never did again, whereas Shrek was one we did re-ride.
I was a team member at this attraction for a little over a year, (2000-2001). I remember that team member uniform at 8:06 very well! By the time I worked there, the actors had been eliminated from the Psycho show portion, so we did entire attraction ourselves. We'd rotate through the building counter-clockwise, from the Opening portion monologue in the smallest theater, to working the preshow of The Birds projection, then to the Psycho portion, (which had been edited to feature us in the shower at the end of the show, pulling back the shower curtain and surprising the guests) and finally working the two FX portions in the largest room next to the gift shop. It was a one-of-a-kind job that I'll never forget!
This is one attraction I have never heard of but am so sad it's gone. I really like Alfred Hitchcock and his movies...I really miss the guest interaction in live action skits in cast member shows..Also realizing the shreck attraction is still playing in 2018 is unsettling. Great video as always though sad to see them gone
Joi Robb why? The attraction is pretty good and Shrek is still a well know property. Plues it has the added benefit of being more family friendly and not using as many cast members or guys wanting to participate in the act.
I grew up in the age where guests fully immerse themselves and cast members make the experience more memoriable. I will always prefer the nostalgia over the new sfuff its just how i am. Plus im never not going to be sad an attraction ive never ridden on is gone. I wish i could ride rides from opening day in disney. Doesnt mean any ride id better than another i just love the things of the past. And shrek maybe somewhat relevant and family friendly but i rather have participated in an alfred hitchcock scene instead
Joi Robb I really enjoy Alfred Hitchcock's stuff too. I would've loved to experience this attraction and The Back To The Future one too. It's such a shame that they have gotten replaced. They looked so awesome.
I swear watching defunctland makes me feel like i missed so much by not visiting Orlando as a kid. I mean i grew up in Southern California so i got to go check out Universal Studios, Disneyland, and even worked at Magic Mountain. But as a kid i would have flipped over a full Hitchcock exhibit. Also the Murder She Wrote one sounded awesome.
I got to go as a kid in like 1998. I went back for the first time this year with my girlfriend, I spent so much time asking "where is this ride? Where is that ride?" the only ride im actually glad that got changed was the original Kong ride, I loved that ride as a kid, but revenge of the mummy ended up being my favorite ride in all of Orlando.
They had a Hitchcock attraction at Universal Studios in Hollywood very similar to this around the year 2000. I went to it and it was awesome. I can’t find anything about it online now though. Weird.
GannJerrod - I genuinely thought it was an impression, lol. I feel bad. My mind has been so warped by stand-up comedians & cartoons that I can't even recognize the real Jimmy Stewart when I hear him.
As someone who took a film class that was solely about Hitchcock films and required me to watch a number of them, I am truly devastated that this no longer exists. I would give anything to get to walk through and see some of the props. However, I’m eternally grateful that you make these videos highlighting exemplary attractions from Universal’s past, as well as other attractions :)
That miniature re-creation of the buildings from Rear Window, and the binoculars to spy at the oblivious inhabitants of them through, was one of my favorite parts of the Hitchcock: The Art of Making Movies walkthrough... I have vivid memories of it, to this day. While Psycho is my favorite of his movies, and as such, naturally, I also got a big kick out of the shower scene re-creation, as well as was obsessed with the Psycho house, itself. I always thought Rear Window offered up this significant and poignant commentary on voyeurism and living vicariously through others, which is even more relevant this day in age, with the advent of social media, vlogging and other such things. I'll never forget it!
Great tribute! I'll never forget that my Dad was picked to be the stand in playing Norman Bates. He played the shower scene from Psycho. Seeing him in a dress was hysterical because we didn't know what he had been picked for. The entire family was in hysterics. Great memory. Thank you!
The sub plot of the psycho segment was pretty fear inducing. While the production crew was explaining what was going on about the "mother" is protesting from inside the bates mansion that this shouldn't be happening. Ultimately collimating in the real "mother" showing up to preform and terrorized the audience alittle. That bird sequence was pretty funny too when the bird that lands on a perch appears to land on the head of the person in front of you. Great video! You can also see the exact moment where Hitchcock said "where's my check" @10:47
My old neighbor was a celebrity wrangler in Texas. When they’d take tours or shoot films there he’d wine and dine them in his home with his wife and kids. It was a different time. He had many photos with people like Grace Kelly and even Hitchcock stopped in to some of his actors for some reason. He had photos with John Wayne with him in a Cadillac driving around San Antonio. Well not driving them sitting in a car laughing. Seeing these photos was amazing and someone should write a book on the guy. He’s still alive in Texas. A rare gem.
I miss the original Universal Studios in Florida. My dad got picked to be the "killer" in the Psycho portion of this attraction on our first family trip there. He also got picked to be the boat captain on the Disney/MGM Backlot Tour water section. He had a quality that got him picked for things like that.
Really been enjoying season 2, Kevin! Whenever I can, I take some time to sit down and watch these videos and listen to the podcasts. They all give me an even deeper appreciation of the history of theme parks and the production behind the attractions that they formerly hosted. This is truly one of my favorite UA-cam channels! Maybe a good idea for a future video would be Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's former Hard Rock Park/Freestyle Music Park. :3
Its almost as if Shrek is more widely recognized and appealing to a broader audience while Alfred Hitchcock is only really enjoyed by very specific filmgoers and people in the film industry
Wauser At least Hitchcock is still revered as one of the best filmmakers of all time and that reputation will stand indefinitely, even if he doesn’t have a ride at a theme park.
Anaussie To be fair, it wasn’t the set from Psycho. That set still stands at Universal Studios Hollywood. The one in Orlando was from Psycho 4: the beginning. Didn’t know there was a Psycho 4? Neither did anyone else.
I got to be the 2nd volunteer for the Statue of Liberty demonstration. I used to say "I've fallen off the Statue of Liberty in Florida" in icebreaker/facts about me games I'm sad this was discontinued. It was a great way to experience Hitchcock's techniques and old school special effects. It was also one of my first experiences with a 3d movie. The bird effect was really well done
I had a Hitchcock themed 10th birthday party in 2000, and honestly the fact that I didn't know this ride was a thing back then is... kind of devastating
To bad the got rid of it. I like stuff like this in parks. They are a nice break from coaster, rides, and the heat of the day, but are still fun. Trust me. In mid July around 1:30pm, all you want is an air conditioned building to sit in for a while.
I don't remember how old I was when I first visited this attraction, but I was 10 when it closed, so pretty young. My family would visit Universal at least once a year and I would drag my parents in every time. For whatever reason, this attraction really got me and I've admired Hitchcock for the better part of my life when I otherwise wouldn't have any idea how important he was in the industry.
May I suggest doing Triceratops Encounter at Universal Islands of Adventure for Jurassic Parks 25th anniversary. Thank you for the amazing video, I've always wanted to go on this attraction but I was born in the time of Shrek.
Jacob Belyea It is and it isn't. I'm disappointed at what they replaced and how out dated it is now, but I did buy the Shrek 3d movie to watch this ride at home.
Bryce Mckenzie I don't think triceratops encounter was great at all. and has to be the shortest lived feature attraction at Islands of Adventure. I am glad to hear your are interested in it, though.
sam torres conceptually it was AMAZING, you got to meet a live Triceratops. Hell, the original Jurassic Park area was amazing. But I doubt Defunctland would do half of an entire Land.
readordiefanatic I was lucky enough to visit Universal Studios Florida at that time, but I was too young to enjoy a lot of the Hollywood side of it. I didn't even know this attraction existed. I wish I'd been a little older. I really hope they bring back experiences like this, with practical effects, exploration, and guest participation, not just sit people in front of screens all day.
I absolutely loved this attraction and would often spend most of my park visit re-entering it. We went to Universal a lot when I was a kid and the Hitchcock and Back to the Future attractions were just about the best it ever got for me.
I can't thank you enough for covering this attraction. I was born and raised in Central-Florida, and Universal Studios holds a very special place in my heart; this attraction was one of my all-time favorites! I have a deep love of film and theatre, which is why I pursued, and secured, a degree in both film and theatre from University; which is why HItchcock was one of the main contributors for my pursuing both fields. Hitchcock was brilliant, and I made an effort to see this attraction every time I went to Universal in Orlando (which was often, because I live here). I was so disappointed, and saddened, to hear that it was being shut down and replaced by other, lesser, shows/attractions. Hitchcock is classic. Hitchcock is Iconic. Hitchcock is forever. So sad to know that this show/attraction is gone and will never see the light of day again. This is just another example of how important, awesome and amazing your show is... how necessary your it is... to PRESERVE attractions, rides, coasters, shows, misc., that the "iconic" theme parks have abandoned. Thank you so much for posting this; thank you for your work. Please... NEVER STOP! You're the best. God Bless, and good night. : )
I just got back from a rough day at work and was so happy to see this. I grew up going to Universal during what I consider its best time and I'm a HUGE Hitchcock fan.
I remember this attraction fondly. It wasn't my introduction to Hitchcock, but it's what made me a fan of the man and his work. When I came home I went on a Hitchcock bender and rented nearly every one of his movies from my local Blockbuster. Vertigo, Psycho, and Rear Window are now among some of my favorite movies of all time.
I forgot how much this ride has impacted me, it actually missing from my life is bringing back great pain… Thank you the defunctland for honoring it the only way you can
I recall this attraction fondly. LOL, we decorated our guest bathroom in stuff we bought from the Hitchcock exhibit's gift shop back around 2000 -- Bates motel key fob, shower curtain, hand towels, and soaps. Good times!
I remember my dad, brother, and myself going to this place back in 1992. It was fun and this is how I discovered Alfred Hitchcock. I remember that 3-D Birds scene and the Rear Window exhibit. Thanks for helping me remember that again.
Thank u so much for this; this is the episode I've been waiting for. I had just moved down to central Florida to start film school when this show closed, and I bought as much as I could afford from the Bates Motel gift shop. Seeing this attraction as a boy in 1991 began my love affair with the films of Hitchcock.
This one hurts something fierce as I remember this one very, very fondly when I lived in Georgia and it was a day trip to go to Universal. I remember being a small child and being absolutely terrified of the director playing the part of Norman Bates in particular.
This is of special significance to me personally, as I was on the opening crew for Shrek 4D when I was younger. There Bates Motel scene and Hitchcock figures were still present for quite a while backstage as were several props and cameras along the catwalks. I will never forget a stormy evening when a few of us crew members were backstage during a thunderstorm and the emergency doors were open. We were exploring the inside of the motel building and it was pitch black. Just then a lightning flash and quick thunder illuminated all of the Hitchcock figures that they stored inside that motel. We all screamed and ran like hell. That was a heck of an experience. Thank you for helping me relive that for a brief moment, I have been enjoying your videos immensely. Keep up the good work!
Oh man, I remember that 3D Birds introduction. That scene scared the crap out of me as a kid when I experienced this attraction. This video really brought back memories, thanks!
When I was seated in that big half-round seating area, I was WAY off to the side in the very end seat. I just KNEW the effects were gonna suck from my vantage point. But Damn! The birds flying in the space above us looked SO real and there was a steel I-beam girder on a cable flinging toward me that I could swear was gonna knock my head off. So then I thought I had the BEST seat. After the show, I exchanged notes with my friends and we had add all had the same feeling from all over the house- so I was super impressed with the fx makers. But here’s the kicker - there was NONE of that audience participation portion after the movie!!! What happened? Did my friends make me skip it that day? Was that part closed that day?!!
I always loved this ride. I was a child through its run. The opening film always made me uneasy, and my dad was actually picked to be the participant once! I’ll always have those memories, even though the attraction is gone.
The first time I went to universal studios, was in 1994. My family owns a funeral home, so my mom has seen some bad things, and dead bodies around the house, we lived in the funeral home, but that day I learn the only thing that a scared her. That thing was the movie of the birds, and when the 3 d's came out of the screen, my mother pretty much lost it. She screamed and ran out. I had to come back in by myself and finish the attraction. One of my best memories ever.
I have to say this is one of my favorite channels. I remember going to this when universal studios 1st opened in 1990. I give you so much credit for actually researching everything because You really do a great job.
That's where this was! I remember visiting this attraction but had completely forgotten when and where it was. So it was on my family's trip to Orlando in the late 90s. I thought this was so cool as a kid. My favorite part was the Rear Window diorama.
There are only two attractions that I only ever experienced once and never did again out of fear. This was one of them. I remember doing this for the first and only time in 1997. That 3D scene really had an effect on me. Years later, once I really started getting interested in Alfred Hitchcock's work, I had wished that I had gotten to experience it again in a new light. Awesome episode, btw! Keep up the great work!
I saw this the week Universal opened. It was one of the few attractions that was working. I recall the interaction among the cast was amazing and downright risque. The director and actor playing Janet Leigh's part spent most of their dialog having a falling out over their failed romance. The double entendres and insuations on the director lack of sexual prowess were hilarious.
Despite the fact that half of the land is still operating, I would love to see an episode on the defunct half of the Lost Continent. It's difficult to try and think back on it when the Hogsmeade behemoth is currently sitting in its spot. And now with Dueling Dragons/Dragon Challenge gone, even more of the old remnants of the original Lost Continent are fading away. I have no doubt that the remaining half of the Lost Continent is currently on the chopping block at IOA, but talking about the Merlin section of the original Lost Continent would be a nice piece of nostalgia. Love the show!
When I was a kid in the late 90s/early 2000s I used to go to Universal Studios Hollywood multiple times a year (a perk of my dad working for Universal and living in the LA area at the time), and attractions like these were some of my favorites. Since this was an Orlando attraction I never saw this one specifically, but man does this bring back memories and make me wish I had.
Nice job once again! Looking forward to more episodes in the future. I hope to see an episode in the future about the jimmy neutron nicktoon blast ride, or Twister: ride it out.
I used to be obsessed with Hitchcock for a time and bought a bunch of his movies. Even painted some portraits of Anthony Perkins and others for class assignments in college. I would've loved going on that ride and seeing the psycho house.
We can't Thank you enough for the work, research and care you put into each one of these video-essays. Upon recently revisiting Universal Studios Hollywood, I was saddened to realize that the NBC Universal Experience (also known as the Universal History Museum, located in the Lower Lot by Transformers: The Ride) had been permanently removed and replaced by a food joint. Would love to have an episode explore its history ..
That was a great episode for one of my favorite attractions at Universal. It was a great way to cool down when the afternoon heat of Florida was to much.
I love this series! It brings back memories, as I have seen many of these shows and attractions in person. Thank you for bringing this to a new generation!
I was a 'Janet' full time in 1991 and continued with the park at other shows for 15 years happily returning to Psycho til it closed. It was a great venue.
I loved this attraction as a kid. My dad raised me watching a lot of Hitchcock movies and one time we were there he was actually picked to be Norman for the shower scene.
Thank you so much for this episode. I had no idea this attraction existed, and would have loved to have seen it! I'm a huge Hitchcock fan and grew up on his movies. It's sad so many young people now aren't exposed to classic film. They would realize it's much better than all the remakes and sequels in theatres now.
I can distinctly remember going to see this as a child. I loved every minute of it! That was until my father and I got back to the hotel. I was so terrified that a knife weilding murderer was going to come kill me that I forced my father to drive us back home that very night instead of in the morning like we were going to, even though he was exhausted.
Alfred Hitchcock used to have his own show on Nick at Nite. His comedy series should be aired on MeTV (Memorable Entertainment Television) in relation to a local channel.
I worked at US Fla starting January 04. When they were clearing out props we moved the models of a Hitchcock into the the storeroom of the Betty Boop/ I love Lucy Story. It was so cool to see the a recreation of the set from Rear Window up close.
I know this video is 2 years old and probably no one will ever see this but I still use the Bates Motel bathrobe that I got from the giftshop of this attraction in 1998 when I was 12 years old. I used to have the matching slippers too but they're long gone.
The masters of horror, Hitchcock, Carpenter, Del Toro, Craven & Romero, each bright something never before seen or done to the genre, making them the 5 pillars of all modern horror, thrillers and/or suspense, but we're down to 2, and Carpenter is the only 1 left who uses elements from hitch, is John.
Thanks for posting this! I am poor and got to go to Universal once. I wanted to do this and the Jaws ride. Both were closed. I never was able to go back. Now both rides are gone. Thanks, because I now feel as if I have been on this!
"So it was replaced by a modern attraction, based on another landmark of cinema..."
*_SHREK_*
someBODY
Memes aside, Shrek really is a great movie
It's all ogre now
Shrek........actually is a landmark of cinema, I'm not joking either.
Shrek is a fun parody of the Disney corporation of the time that got milked to death by executives.
I find it really sad that a lot of the actor-driven and audience-participation attractions at Universal and Hollywood Studios and in amusement parks overall have been replaced with things that are simply branded with company properties.
Well to be fair the attractions have always been brands of different companies, to say nothing on how many of the actor-driven and audience participation attractions bombed for one reason or another
Well, true, but not always so over-branded for me. EPCOT and Disney used to have a lot of experience-themed rides and attractions that weren't necessarily calling back to a particular franchise, but now it's all rides that tie directly to movies or TV.
xingcat - I feel the same way, even though I do remember those audience participation shows could get awkward & uncomfortable, depending on who got picked out.
I've done voiceover work for most of my life, so of course I was absolutely enthralled by the sound & Foley shows they did at Disney MGM when it first opened. My family was disappointed at the lack of 'real rides', but I wanted to be part of movie making so much, I spent the entire day in my own head, pretending I really was part of a movie. I was nine and I had an absolute blast.
Now I have a 9yo niece who is very much like I was, but her three siblings all want the rides. I don't think there's anything wrong with loving straightforward rides & shows, not at all, but it does make me a little sad that my niece probably won't get a chance to experience the technical shows they once had, because I know she'd friggin' love that (she loved historical Williamsburg, VA, too, while her siblings wanted to hang themselves from sheer boredom).
I think it boils down to how much it can suck to have the minority interest. I could watch a studio show about sound effects all damn day, but understand other folks might be like "Screw this! Give me the talking donkey or give me death!".
If it makes you feel better the water world stunt show and the special effects show at universal are still at it
it's a sign of the times that a salute to cinematic masterpieces has been replaced by a cartoon ogre who gets laughs with booger and fart jokes.
The editing on those Hitchcock-y opening credits was perfect.
But when I heard music, I was like...Beetlejuice?
Watching Kevin's channel is awesome, seeing someone doing something because they love it and just getting better and better. I consider him a professional at this point!
When Jimmy Stewart says "Hi, I'm Jimmy Stewart," I burst out laughing because I thought it was someone doing an imitation.
But didja shee tha murder?
One of the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts had Jimmy as the "star" of the special. One segment had an impersonator teach Jimmy Stewart how to act like Jimmy Stewart. It was funny, but also rather interesting to see the difference between perception/caricature and the real thing.
I saw this attraction in August 16, 1994. It was an "audience participation" attraction, and my girlfriend at the time was picked for the carousel scene! We really hammed it up that day, she also got picked to be on stage for "Earthquake!" I got picked to be on stage at the Ghostbusters and Murder She Wrote attractions!!! Crazy vay-cay!!!
JeffFrmJoisey I liked this post because in 1998, my girlfriend at the time was also picked for the and part on Alfred Hitchcock
I got picked twice for Hitchcock (the falling down the statue of liberty scene) and picked once for Earthquake (I had gone to Universal a couple of times in the 90s). It was a lot of fun. Sad to know that they got rid of this aspect. Imagine what they could do now and how it could attract the social media people looking for a good shot.
I got picked for Xena....I didnt want to get picked, i tried to avoid eye contact...that didnt work
Really a treat reading these recollections of now non-existent Alfred Hitchcock: Art of Making Movies attraction. I was fortunate to be one of the primary attraction directors/interactive designers on this show (I also did the same for Murder, She Wrote Mystery Theatre, and later, Jaws ). As a filmmaker, it was truly a dream job working with materials from this master movie creator and the actors who participated in the attraction features. On top of working alongside such great technical creators that Universal put to work creating the park (at the time, we were really working with "advanced and state of the art" technology). Tons of great memories! We had so much creative fun producing these shows as it seems people had attending and participating in them.
I remember going on this ride when I was 4 years old, not knowing who Alfred Hitchcock was, and still I thought this was the coolest attraction. The ride itself did such a good job explaining the films that a literal child could understand it
This attraction was what caused me to fall in love with Hitchcock films. I remember the first time I visited this attraction as a kid. I was fascinated by the props in this attraction, and the shower scene from Pyscho. Now as an adult who still loves Hitchcock films, I truly cherish what this attraction did for me as a kid. Thank you for the amazing video Kevin!
SAME!!! in 1992 I was 10, my dad had me and my Mum and Brother take a pic in front of the Bates Motel, had never heard of it before, thus began my Hitchcock Journey.
I remember this was one of the last attractions to close for the evening, and we would go there to stretch our time in the park. It would be totally empty except for the actors/attendants, but you could take your time at every exhibit. Sad it's gone but I'm glad I got a chance to go to it. Even got picked for the "Saboteur" demonstration one time :)
Same here. I was devastated when I learned they were replacing it with Shrek. I miss the T2, King Kong and Twister attractions as well.
Same here! I remember the shower scene recreation so well, and how I begged my Aunt (my classic movie/tv influence) afterward to buy Psycho so I could see the whole thing. I waited excitedly all week until I could go watch it with her, and when I did it was everything I hoped for. Now still a top 5 favorite movie of mine. Also, Anthony Perkins and I share the same birthday, so I often watch it then.
Same, I think I went in 2000 or 2001 and I've never been the same. I walked into that building as a typical 2000s kid that hated black and white movies just because they were old, and, now 20 years later I still have a deep love for movies of that era and earlier and especially Hitchcock films. The place was a benchmark event for me
"Guests entered a new, thrilling GARBAGE FIRE"
@Maintenance Renegade It's like buying the newest version of Windows right away. Always wait until at least one service pack has been released.
This is the humor that I enjoy.
I went very early on in 1990 and there was so little operational that they were handing out tickets to come back for free. It was nice to be able to walk from the parking lot right inside however.
Never knew this was what Shrek replaced. What a sad substitution. I wish they'd bring back more attractions *about* movies.... :-(
Peanut Turner shrek is a movie
Fuck you say bout my Nigga shrek
@@heelyBrah Shrek isn't a movie, it's a work of art.
Cooper Olm movies are art. So I am correct
Eh, I managed to go on it once, and it wasn't anything special; the 3D birds scene, for instance, looked pretty crumby in comparison to the stuff coming out around the 2000s (The Bug's Life ride at Animal Kingdom is in a different League). I've been to Universal a few times and it was one of those we never did again, whereas Shrek was one we did re-ride.
I was a team member at this attraction for a little over a year, (2000-2001). I remember that team member uniform at 8:06 very well! By the time I worked there, the actors had been eliminated from the Psycho show portion, so we did entire attraction ourselves. We'd rotate through the building counter-clockwise, from the Opening portion monologue in the smallest theater, to working the preshow of The Birds projection, then to the Psycho portion, (which had been edited to feature us in the shower at the end of the show, pulling back the shower curtain and surprising the guests) and finally working the two FX portions in the largest room next to the gift shop. It was a one-of-a-kind job that I'll never forget!
*shower curtains open*
SOME-
@R J I AIN'T THE SHARPEST TOOL IN DA SHED
*D O N K E H . . .*
@Floofie kun THAT'S NOT THE LYRICS!
in the shape of an L on her forehead
Kelly Weingart Well, the years start coming, and they don’t stop coming...
This is one attraction I have never heard of but am so sad it's gone. I really like Alfred Hitchcock and his movies...I really miss the guest interaction in live action skits in cast member shows..Also realizing the shreck attraction is still playing in 2018 is unsettling. Great video as always though sad to see them gone
Joi Robb why? The attraction is pretty good and Shrek is still a well know property. Plues it has the added benefit of being more family friendly and not using as many cast members or guys wanting to participate in the act.
I grew up in the age where guests fully immerse themselves and cast members make the experience more memoriable. I will always prefer the nostalgia over the new sfuff its just how i am. Plus im never not going to be sad an attraction ive never ridden on is gone. I wish i could ride rides from opening day in disney. Doesnt mean any ride id better than another i just love the things of the past. And shrek maybe somewhat relevant and family friendly but i rather have participated in an alfred hitchcock scene instead
Joi Robb I really enjoy Alfred Hitchcock's stuff too. I would've loved to experience this attraction and The Back To The Future one too. It's such a shame that they have gotten replaced. They looked so awesome.
I swear watching defunctland makes me feel like i missed so much by not visiting Orlando as a kid. I mean i grew up in Southern California so i got to go check out Universal Studios, Disneyland, and even worked at Magic Mountain. But as a kid i would have flipped over a full Hitchcock exhibit. Also the Murder She Wrote one sounded awesome.
I got to go as a kid in like 1998. I went back for the first time this year with my girlfriend, I spent so much time asking "where is this ride? Where is that ride?" the only ride im actually glad that got changed was the original Kong ride, I loved that ride as a kid, but revenge of the mummy ended up being my favorite ride in all of Orlando.
They had a Hitchcock attraction at Universal Studios in Hollywood very similar to this around the year 2000. I went to it and it was awesome. I can’t find anything about it online now though. Weird.
Old Jimmy Stewart sounds like a bad Jimmy Stewart impression.
GannJerrod I love your profile pic!
GannJerrod - I genuinely thought it was an impression, lol.
I feel bad. My mind has been so warped by stand-up comedians & cartoons that I can't even recognize the real Jimmy Stewart when I hear him.
It's called Parkinson's
Holyshit he died in 1997, I always thought he was one of those actors that died in their middle age
@@tpower1912 0:22 You have not seen anything yet!
As someone who took a film class that was solely about Hitchcock films and required me to watch a number of them, I am truly devastated that this no longer exists. I would give anything to get to walk through and see some of the props. However, I’m eternally grateful that you make these videos highlighting exemplary attractions from Universal’s past, as well as other attractions :)
That miniature re-creation of the buildings from Rear Window, and the binoculars to spy at the oblivious inhabitants of them through, was one of my favorite parts of the Hitchcock: The Art of Making Movies walkthrough... I have vivid memories of it, to this day. While Psycho is my favorite of his movies, and as such, naturally, I also got a big kick out of the shower scene re-creation, as well as was obsessed with the Psycho house, itself. I always thought Rear Window offered up this significant and poignant commentary on voyeurism and living vicariously through others, which is even more relevant this day in age, with the advent of social media, vlogging and other such things. I'll never forget it!
That was really really cool!
I came into the comments to talk about that. It was the best. 💜
Great tribute!
I'll never forget that my Dad was picked to be the stand in playing Norman Bates. He played the shower scene from Psycho. Seeing him in a dress was hysterical because we didn't know what he had been picked for. The entire family was in hysterics. Great memory. Thank you!
Thank you for playing all star when shrek came in 😂
SOME
*BODY*
TOLD
ME
THE
The Rear Window setpiece was incredible. I wish I had taken pictures of everything back then.
The sub plot of the psycho segment was pretty fear inducing. While the production crew was explaining what was going on about the "mother" is protesting from inside the bates mansion that this shouldn't be happening. Ultimately collimating in the real "mother" showing up to preform and terrorized the audience alittle.
That bird sequence was pretty funny too when the bird that lands on a perch appears to land on the head of the person in front of you.
Great video! You can also see the exact moment where Hitchcock said "where's my check" @10:47
Oh, hey, Scott! Wasn’t expecting to see you here!
My old neighbor was a celebrity wrangler in Texas. When they’d take tours or shoot films there he’d wine and dine them in his home with his wife and kids. It was a different time.
He had many photos with people like Grace Kelly and even Hitchcock stopped in to some of his actors for some reason. He had photos with John Wayne with him in a Cadillac driving around San Antonio. Well not driving them sitting in a car laughing. Seeing these photos was amazing and someone should write a book on the guy. He’s still alive in Texas. A rare gem.
Dude your intros just keep getting better. Keep up the good work!
I miss the original Universal Studios in Florida. My dad got picked to be the "killer" in the Psycho portion of this attraction on our first family trip there. He also got picked to be the boat captain on the Disney/MGM Backlot Tour water section. He had a quality that got him picked for things like that.
May this outstanding attraction rest in peace. Shrek is not worthy to replace it.
An episode of My literal favorite UA-cam series, UPLOADED ON MY BIRTHDAY😍😍😍
Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday!!!!!
Happy birthday!!
Really been enjoying season 2, Kevin! Whenever I can, I take some time to sit down and watch these videos and listen to the podcasts. They all give me an even deeper appreciation of the history of theme parks and the production behind the attractions that they formerly hosted. This is truly one of my favorite UA-cam channels!
Maybe a good idea for a future video would be Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's former Hard Rock Park/Freestyle Music Park. :3
I’m 49. LOVED this attraction. Then they added Backdraft to it. Loved it all.
IT'S FINALLY HERE AND IT WAS AS GOOD AS I HOPED!!!
Been requesting this since the first Defunctland video I saw. The system works!
You really are one of the greats Kevin!! These Universal videos are particularly upsetting to watch seeing as what Universal has become.
Oh replacing Alfred Hitchcock with fucking shrek. When he said that I physically cringed.
Its almost as if Shrek is more widely recognized and appealing to a broader audience while Alfred Hitchcock is only really enjoyed by very specific filmgoers and people in the film industry
Dracomut oh don't come in here with your bloody sensible and rational argument...
Wauser At least Hitchcock is still revered as one of the best filmmakers of all time and that reputation will stand indefinitely, even if he doesn’t have a ride at a theme park.
Yup, shameful isn't it?
Anaussie To be fair, it wasn’t the set from Psycho. That set still stands at Universal Studios Hollywood. The one in Orlando was from Psycho 4: the beginning. Didn’t know there was a Psycho 4? Neither did anyone else.
I got to be the 2nd volunteer for the Statue of Liberty demonstration. I used to say "I've fallen off the Statue of Liberty in Florida" in icebreaker/facts about me games
I'm sad this was discontinued. It was a great way to experience Hitchcock's techniques and old school special effects. It was also one of my first experiences with a 3d movie. The bird effect was really well done
I had a Hitchcock themed 10th birthday party in 2000, and honestly the fact that I didn't know this ride was a thing back then is... kind of devastating
To bad the got rid of it. I like stuff like this in parks. They are a nice break from coaster, rides, and the heat of the day, but are still fun. Trust me. In mid July around 1:30pm, all you want is an air conditioned building to sit in for a while.
I don't remember how old I was when I first visited this attraction, but I was 10 when it closed, so pretty young. My family would visit Universal at least once a year and I would drag my parents in every time. For whatever reason, this attraction really got me and I've admired Hitchcock for the better part of my life when I otherwise wouldn't have any idea how important he was in the industry.
May I suggest doing Triceratops Encounter at Universal Islands of Adventure for Jurassic Parks 25th anniversary. Thank you for the amazing video, I've always wanted to go on this attraction but I was born in the time of Shrek.
Bryce Mckenzie Shrek 4D isn’t bad
Jacob Belyea
It is and it isn't. I'm disappointed at what they replaced and how out dated it is now, but I did buy the Shrek 3d movie to watch this ride at home.
Hell yes
Bryce Mckenzie I don't think triceratops encounter was great at all. and has to be the shortest lived feature attraction at Islands of Adventure. I am glad to hear your are interested in it, though.
sam torres
conceptually it was AMAZING, you got to meet a live Triceratops.
Hell, the original Jurassic Park area was amazing. But I doubt Defunctland would do half of an entire Land.
Thats what i miss the most about Universal! It gave you a behind the scenes look at the making of movies!
Angela Kortright-Calo really put the studio in universal studios
I think that Shrek 4D has ogre-run it’s course
The one in California is being replaced by the DreamWorks Theater, so I expect the same to happen with Florida's.
Tedious Totoro I heard they're gonna replace shrek 4D with secret life of pets
Its course was ran as soon as it opened. It's probably the worse 3D movie I've seen for it's time.
The Orlando US has replaced with a Despicable Me attraction last time I was there.
spadeface38 Despicable Me:Minion Mayhem was originally Jimmy Neutrons Nicktoon Blast and before that it was The Funtastic World of Hanna Barbbera
I really, really wish I had a time machine so I could revisit 90s era Universal Studios Florida.
readordiefanatic I was lucky enough to visit Universal Studios Florida at that time, but I was too young to enjoy a lot of the Hollywood side of it. I didn't even know this attraction existed. I wish I'd been a little older. I really hope they bring back experiences like this, with practical effects, exploration, and guest participation, not just sit people in front of screens all day.
Great reference to Psycho in the start and end credits.
I absolutely loved this attraction and would often spend most of my park visit re-entering it. We went to Universal a lot when I was a kid and the Hitchcock and Back to the Future attractions were just about the best it ever got for me.
I can't thank you enough for covering this attraction. I was born and raised in Central-Florida, and Universal Studios holds a very special place in my heart; this attraction was one of my all-time favorites!
I have a deep love of film and theatre, which is why I pursued, and secured, a degree in both film and theatre from University; which is why HItchcock was one of the main contributors for my pursuing both fields.
Hitchcock was brilliant, and I made an effort to see this attraction every time I went to Universal in Orlando (which was often, because I live here). I was so disappointed, and saddened, to hear that it was being shut down and replaced by other, lesser, shows/attractions.
Hitchcock is classic. Hitchcock is Iconic. Hitchcock is forever.
So sad to know that this show/attraction is gone and will never see the light of day again.
This is just another example of how important, awesome and amazing your show is... how necessary your it is... to PRESERVE attractions, rides, coasters, shows, misc., that the "iconic" theme parks have abandoned.
Thank you so much for posting this; thank you for your work. Please... NEVER STOP! You're the best. God Bless, and good night. : )
We went to Universal in 2016 and I was so disappointed that we couldn't go in this.
I just got back from a rough day at work and was so happy to see this. I grew up going to Universal during what I consider its best time and I'm a HUGE Hitchcock fan.
I remember this attraction fondly. It wasn't my introduction to Hitchcock, but it's what made me a fan of the man and his work. When I came home I went on a Hitchcock bender and rented nearly every one of his movies from my local Blockbuster. Vertigo, Psycho, and Rear Window are now among some of my favorite movies of all time.
I forgot how much this ride has impacted me, it actually missing from my life is bringing back great pain… Thank you the defunctland for honoring it the only way you can
I recall this attraction fondly. LOL, we decorated our guest bathroom in stuff we bought from the Hitchcock exhibit's gift shop back around 2000 -- Bates motel key fob, shower curtain, hand towels, and soaps. Good times!
I remember my dad, brother, and myself going to this place back in 1992. It was fun and this is how I discovered Alfred Hitchcock. I remember that 3-D Birds scene and the Rear Window exhibit. Thanks for helping me remember that again.
Thank u so much for this; this is the episode I've been waiting for.
I had just moved down to central Florida to start film school when this show closed, and I bought as much as I could afford from the Bates Motel gift shop.
Seeing this attraction as a boy in 1991 began my love affair with the films of Hitchcock.
New Defunctland? It is my lucky day!
This one hurts something fierce as I remember this one very, very fondly when I lived in Georgia and it was a day trip to go to Universal. I remember being a small child and being absolutely terrified of the director playing the part of Norman Bates in particular.
Defunctland is the best! Please consider Star Trek: The Experience at the Las Vegas Hilton for Season 3!
Elijah Grimes I’m with this person
Also the MGM Grand Adventures theme park
1337Pwny I’ve been there too!
I loved this exhibit/attraction.
Probably the best Defunctland video so far! I wish there was more footage of the ride and how the bird scene worked but still was amazing! 10/10
Man, this looks like such a neat attraction. Shame they removed it. Damn.
This is of special significance to me personally, as I was on the opening crew for Shrek 4D when I was younger. There Bates Motel scene and Hitchcock figures were still present for quite a while backstage as were several props and cameras along the catwalks. I will never forget a stormy evening when a few of us crew members were backstage during a thunderstorm and the emergency doors were open. We were exploring the inside of the motel building and it was pitch black. Just then a lightning flash and quick thunder illuminated all of the Hitchcock figures that they stored inside that motel. We all screamed and ran like hell. That was a heck of an experience. Thank you for helping me relive that for a brief moment, I have been enjoying your videos immensely. Keep up the good work!
Oh man, I remember that 3D Birds introduction. That scene scared the crap out of me as a kid when I experienced this attraction. This video really brought back memories, thanks!
When I was seated in that big half-round seating area, I was WAY off to the side in the very end seat. I just KNEW the effects were gonna suck from my vantage point. But Damn! The birds flying in the space above us looked SO real and there was a steel I-beam girder on a cable flinging toward me that I could swear was gonna knock my head off. So then I thought I had the BEST seat. After the show, I exchanged notes with my friends and we had add all had the same feeling from all over the house- so I was super impressed with the fx makers. But here’s the kicker - there was NONE of that audience participation portion after the movie!!! What happened? Did my friends make me skip it that day? Was that part closed that day?!!
This attraction scared the crap out of me as a kid. After “The Birds” attacked the screen, I wanted outta there fast lmao
I always loved this ride. I was a child through its run. The opening film always made me uneasy, and my dad was actually picked to be the participant once! I’ll always have those memories, even though the attraction is gone.
The first time I went to universal studios, was in 1994. My family owns a funeral home, so my mom has seen some bad things, and dead bodies around the house, we lived in the funeral home, but that day I learn the only thing that a scared her. That thing was the movie of the birds, and when the 3 d's came out of the screen, my mother pretty much lost it. She screamed and ran out. I had to come back in by myself and finish the attraction. One of my best memories ever.
I have to say this is one of my favorite channels. I remember going to this when universal studios 1st opened in 1990. I give you so much credit for actually researching everything because You really do a great job.
That's where this was! I remember visiting this attraction but had completely forgotten when and where it was. So it was on my family's trip to Orlando in the late 90s. I thought this was so cool as a kid. My favorite part was the Rear Window diorama.
There are only two attractions that I only ever experienced once and never did again out of fear. This was one of them. I remember doing this for the first and only time in 1997. That 3D scene really had an effect on me. Years later, once I really started getting interested in Alfred Hitchcock's work, I had wished that I had gotten to experience it again in a new light. Awesome episode, btw! Keep up the great work!
You cannot put these out fast enough, I am hooked on this series!
i’m always so happy to see new videos from you in my feed
I saw this the week Universal opened. It was one of the few attractions that was working. I recall the interaction among the cast was amazing and downright risque. The director and actor playing Janet Leigh's part spent most of their dialog having a falling out over their failed romance. The double entendres and insuations on the director lack of sexual prowess were hilarious.
4:18 that's crazy I get to watch the movies that anthony's kid makes now. shoutout longlegs
Despite the fact that half of the land is still operating, I would love to see an episode on the defunct half of the Lost Continent. It's difficult to try and think back on it when the Hogsmeade behemoth is currently sitting in its spot. And now with Dueling Dragons/Dragon Challenge gone, even more of the old remnants of the original Lost Continent are fading away. I have no doubt that the remaining half of the Lost Continent is currently on the chopping block at IOA, but talking about the Merlin section of the original Lost Continent would be a nice piece of nostalgia. Love the show!
Great overview of one of my favorite Universal Florida attractions! Your Saul Bass Psycho titles were perfect!
When I was a kid in the late 90s/early 2000s I used to go to Universal Studios Hollywood multiple times a year (a perk of my dad working for Universal and living in the LA area at the time), and attractions like these were some of my favorites. Since this was an Orlando attraction I never saw this one specifically, but man does this bring back memories and make me wish I had.
I was picked to do the falling scene in saboteur and this video was a trip through memory lane! Thanks for that!
Saw this on the Facebook group. Cool that you’re really looking at the ideas thrown out
Nice job once again! Looking forward to more episodes in the future. I hope to see an episode in the future about the jimmy neutron nicktoon blast ride, or Twister: ride it out.
Those DRAGS at Universal Studios FL!! Living for it!!
I used to be obsessed with Hitchcock for a time and bought a bunch of his movies. Even painted some portraits of Anthony Perkins and others for class assignments in college. I would've loved going on that ride and seeing the psycho house.
We can't Thank you enough for the work, research and care you put into each one of these video-essays. Upon recently revisiting Universal Studios Hollywood, I was saddened to realize that the NBC Universal Experience (also known as the Universal History Museum, located in the Lower Lot by Transformers: The Ride) had been permanently removed and replaced by a food joint. Would love to have an episode explore its history ..
That was a great episode for one of my favorite attractions at Universal. It was a great way to cool down when the afternoon heat of Florida was to much.
I love this series! It brings back memories, as I have seen many of these shows and attractions in person. Thank you for bringing this to a new generation!
I was just watching some of the older universal studios pieces Kevin uploaded, and now it's like another piece has emerged
Actually went to this attraction in 1993, and remember the Statue of Liberty prop.
I was a 'Janet' full time in 1991 and continued with the park at other shows for 15 years happily returning to Psycho til it closed. It was a great venue.
I loved this attraction as a kid. My dad raised me watching a lot of Hitchcock movies and one time we were there he was actually picked to be Norman for the shower scene.
Thank you so much for this episode. I had no idea this attraction existed, and would have loved to have seen it! I'm a huge Hitchcock fan and grew up on his movies. It's sad so many young people now aren't exposed to classic film. They would realize it's much better than all the remakes and sequels in theatres now.
I can distinctly remember going to see this as a child. I loved every minute of it! That was until my father and I got back to the hotel. I was so terrified that a knife weilding murderer was going to come kill me that I forced my father to drive us back home that very night instead of in the morning like we were going to, even though he was exhausted.
I saw this back in the day. everyone in the family LOVED it.
I went in the early 90s Orlando - my dad got chosen to be the actor!
This sounds like such an incredible experience and I’m so disappointed I never got to participate.
I loved the rear window scale model and you looked through the binoculars into the windows. I remember it vividly.
Alfred Hitchcock used to have his own show on Nick at Nite. His comedy series should be aired on MeTV (Memorable Entertainment Television) in relation to a local channel.
I worked at US Fla starting January 04. When they were clearing out props we moved the models of a Hitchcock into the the storeroom of the Betty Boop/ I love Lucy Story. It was so cool to see the a recreation of the set from Rear Window up close.
I know this video is 2 years old and probably no one will ever see this but I still use the Bates Motel bathrobe that I got from the giftshop of this attraction in 1998 when I was 12 years old. I used to have the matching slippers too but they're long gone.
What a lovely tribute to Hitchcock that attraction was.
10:38
Eh, the Shark still looks Fake.
Shark, Shark, Shark!!
I understood that reference.
Christopher Leavitt hahaha
Thanks, Hitch.
lol
I wanna cry what a cool look at actual film making. I wish I could have experienced it. It looks legitimately so fun and immersive.
My god Kevin, i swear these are getting better and better. Keep up the great work!
I wish I could have seen this, and too bad it's not around now, it could introduce a whole generation to Hitch!!
I remembered looking through those windows as a kid when I went here. Glad to be brought back to that memory
The masters of horror, Hitchcock, Carpenter, Del Toro, Craven & Romero, each bright something never before seen or done to the genre, making them the 5 pillars of all modern horror, thrillers and/or suspense, but we're down to 2, and Carpenter is the only 1 left who uses elements from hitch, is John.
This is such a great topic for an episode. I never would have requested this, but it's exactly what I wanted. Great job!
My dad was selected to play Mother/Norman Bates when I was a kid growing up. What a great memory
Thanks for posting this! I am poor and got to go to Universal once. I wanted to do this and the Jaws ride. Both were closed. I never was able to go back. Now both rides are gone. Thanks, because I now feel as if I have been on this!